Impaired driving remains the leading cause of death on Ontario’s roads and highways, and it is truly disappointing to see such a dramatic spike in these types of incidents over such a short period of time.

At Cariati Law, Toronto, Ontario Accident and Personal Injury law firm, we have represented far too many victims and families that were harmed by intoxicated drivers. Ontario Police announced in their report that some of the drivers charged within the last 30 days have had Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) readings of as much as three or four times the legal limit.

This type of behavior, especially on such a widespread scale, is dangerous, reckless and unacceptable. We must all do our part to help spread awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving to ensure that the number of intoxicated drivers on Ontario’s roads and highways decreases dramatically.

For a first time conviction, you will face a minimum of 1 year with an “ignition interlock device” attached to your car. This device requires drivers to take and pass a breathalyzer test before the engine will start. This will be accompanied by a $1,000 fine and a year-long driver’s license suspension.

For a second offense, the ignition interlock device will remain attached to a driver’s car for three years. Second-offense drivers will also serve a minimum 30-day jail sentence, have their license suspended for three years, and pay a fine determined by the discretion of the judge in their case.

Third and subsequent offenses become even more extreme. The associated fine will increase, the minimum jail sentence will increase to 120 days, and the driver will lose permanent use of their driver’s license.

Police in Ontario are trying everything they can to enforce drinking and driving laws in our province. However, reducing the number of accidents caused by intoxicated drivers will require effort from all of Ontario’s citizens. According to OPP Sargent Kerry Schmidt, “we need to make drunk driving socially unacceptable.”

If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent, reckless or intoxicated driver, you will need an experienced Toronto, Ontario Accident and Injury lawyer by your side. At Cariati Law, we have years of experience generating recoveries for clients that were injured through no fault of their own.

When you are injured in a serious accident due to someone else’s negligence, your focus should be on recuperating and getting back on your feet as quickly as possible. Trust Cariati Law to focus on recovering for your injuries, emotional damages and lost wages.